Why Teach About Asia?

Kentucky students need to learn about Asia to become world-ready citizens.

Asia is important demographically: 57% of the world's population lives in Asia.
Asia is important economically: Asian economies represent approximately 1/3 of the World Gross National Product. Since the early 1980’s the US has done more trade across the Pacific than across the Atlantic. More than 80% of the U.S. global trade deficit is with Asian countries.
Asia is important historically: Asia is the birthplace of major world religions and belief systems including Hinduism, Buddhism, Shinto, and Confucianism. Asian civilizations and American concerns have been intertwined through history.
Asia is important culturally: Asian societies have made innumerable and fascinating contributions in architecture, art, textiles, landscape, theatre, music, dance, and film.

Asia-knowledge significantly enhances employment prospects, and the opportunities to work internationally. Students with Asia-knowledge are highly valued in government, in policy analysis, throughout commerce and service industries.

Content about Asia enhances all subject areas including:

History: American History and World History
Social Studies: Geography, Philosophy, Political Systems
Arts and Humanities: Music, Drama
English, Reading, or Writing
Vocational Studies
English as a Second Language

See the Kentucky Department of Education’s curriculum & assessment documents. Contact the Asia Center for lesson ideas for your classes.